JP2013233429A - Apparatus for activating electrosurgical vessel sealing instrument having electrical cutting mechanism - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an apparatus for activating an electrosurgical vessel sealing instrument having an electrical cutting mechanism.SOLUTION: An electrosurgical forceps includes: a housing 4 supporting a shaft 16; and a pair of opposing first jaw member 12 and second jaw member 14, each jaw member including a pair of spaced apart, electrically conductive tissue-sealing surfaces and at least one of the jaw members including an electrically conductive cutting element; and a switch assembly 8 operably disposed on the housing and including an activation member 38 in operable communication with the source of electrosurgical energy, wherein the activation member can move from a non-active formation to a first active formation for supplying the electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surfaces to seal tissue and to a second active formation for supplying the electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue.

Description

(background)
(Technical field)
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for operating an electrosurgical vascular seal device having an electrical cutting mechanism. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a switching device that is utilized to activate a sealing sequence and an electrode cutting sequence.

(Description of related technology)
Open electrosurgical forceps or endoscopic electrosurgical forceps use both mechanical clamping and electrical energy to provide hemostasis. Certain surgical procedures “seal” tissue, vessels and specific vessel bundles depending on a combination of clamp pressure, electrosurgical energy, and gap distance. More specifically, vascular and tissue seals include precise control of radio frequency energy, clamping pressure, and gap distance (i.e., distance between opposing jaw members when closed around tissue). Is used to effectively seal or fuse tissue between two opposing jaw members or between sealing plates.

  Typically, and particularly with respect to endoscopic electrosurgical procedures, once the vessel has been sealed, the surgeon removes the sealing instrument from the surgical site, replaces it with a new instrument through the cannula, and newly forms The vessel must be accurately cut along the tissue seal. As can be appreciated, this additional step is time consuming (especially when sealing a large number of vessels) and can lead to inaccurate separation of tissue along the seal line (of the tissue seal). Due to misalignment or misalignment of cutting instruments along the center).

  In order to overcome the above disadvantages, conventional sealing instruments sometimes utilize an end effector assembly with a cutting electrode configuration. In particular, the end effector may comprise jaw members that are disposed within the respective conductive vascular / tissue sealing surface and the insulation of one or both of the jaw members. A conductive cutting element. This cutting element is capable of cutting the vessel / tissue by electrosurgical actuation. Typically, the electrical potential of the conductive sealing surface and the potential of the cutting element are separately actuated by the surgeon by an interrelated combination of controllers (including handles, triggers, hand switches, and foot switches) Is possible. In use, the surgeon must activate these controllers in a specific order to effectively seal and cut the tissue. Often, several hand and / or finger manipulations are required to complete the desired sealing and cutting procedure.

The present invention provides, for example:
(Item 1)
A housing supporting a shaft, wherein the shaft defines a longitudinal axis;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member comprising a pair of spaced conductive conductive sealing surfaces, the tissue sealing surfaces comprising electrosurgical energy The tissue sealing surface is adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. And at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member comprises a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member, the first jaw member and the second jaw member And a switch assembly operably disposed on the housing, the switch assembly supplying electrosurgical energy to provide electrosurgical energy to the first jaw member and the second jaw member Operably communicate with the source The actuating member is movable from an inactive configuration to a first active configuration and a second active configuration, the first active configuration comprising electrosurgical energy for sealing tissue The switch is a configuration for providing electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue An electrosurgical forceps comprising the assembly.
(Item 2)
An activation member is operably disposed at the proximal end of the housing, and the longitudinal axis is for placing the activation member in one of the first active configuration and the second active configuration. The electrosurgical forceps according to the above item, which is movable along the line.
(Item 3)
An activation member is operably disposed near the center of the housing, and the longitudinal axis is positioned to place the activation member in one of the first active configuration and the second active configuration. An electrosurgical forceps according to any of the preceding items, which is movable across.
(Item 4)
The electrosurgical forceps according to any of the preceding items, wherein the activation member is accessible from either the left side or the right side of the housing.
(Item 5)
The electrosurgical forceps according to any of the preceding items, wherein the activation member is one of a rocker switch and a switch rod.
(Item 6)
The rocker switch comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion and the lower portion being configured to place the rocker switch in a respective first active configuration and second active configuration when depressed. The electrosurgical forceps according to any one of the above items.
(Item 7)
The switch rod includes an upper depressible portion and a lower depressible portion, the upper depressable portion and the lower depressible portion place the switch rod in the first active configuration and the second active configuration, respectively. The electric device according to any one of the above items, wherein the upper pressable portion, the upper pressable portion, and the lower pressable portion are configured to light up when pressed. Surgical forceps.
(Item 8)
The switch bar includes a left depressible portion and a right depressible portion, and the left depressible portion and the right depressable portion are provided to the first jaw member and the second jaw member. A plurality of horizontally ignitable members configured to adjust a power intensity level of energy and disposed between the left depressible portion and the right depressible portion; The electrosurgical forceps according to any of the preceding items, wherein the electrosurgical forceps are indicative of the power intensity level of the electrosurgical energy provided to one jaw member and the second jaw member to a user.
(Item 9)
housing;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, wherein at least one of the first and second jaw members has a first position relative to the other from a first position; Is movable to a second position, wherein in the first position the first jaw member and the second jaw member are arranged in spaced relation to each other, the second jaw member In position, the first jaw member and the second jaw member cooperate to grasp tissue between the first jaw member and the second jaw member, each jaw member comprising: A pair of electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces spaced apart, wherein the woven sealing surface is adapted to be connected to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the tissue sealing surface is A seal can be conducted by conducting electrosurgical energy through tissue held between the sealing surfaces; Members and at least one of the second jaw member includes a cutting element of electrically conductive disposed in jaw member, the first and second jaw members;
A first switch assembly operably disposed in the housing, wherein the first switch assembly provides electrosurgical energy for providing electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue. A first switch assembly comprising an actuating member in operative communication with a source;
A lever having a latched configuration and an unlatched configuration, wherein the lever is in operative communication with a second switch assembly that is in operative communication with the source of electrosurgical energy. A lever assembly in which, in the unlatched configuration, electrosurgical energy is provided to the cutting element; and a handle assembly comprising a movable handle, the movable handle including the at least one movable jaw member The movable handle is configured to move from the first position to the second position, the movable handle is in operative communication with the lever, and the lever is configured from the latched configuration. An electrosurgical forceps comprising a handle assembly configured to move the latch to an unlatched configuration.
(Item 10)
housing;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member comprising a pair of spaced conductive conductive sealing surfaces, the tissue sealing surfaces comprising electrosurgical energy The tissue sealing surface is adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. A first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member comprises a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member; and A switch assembly comprising an activation member and a selector, the activation member operable with the source of electrosurgical energy for providing electrosurgical energy to the first jaw member and the second jaw member And the selection Is configured to allow a user to selectively place the electrosurgical forceps in at least two operating modes, the at least two operating modes being a sealing mode and a cutting mode, wherein the sealing In mode, activation of the activation member supplies electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue, and in the cutting mode, activation of the activation member is for cutting the sealed tissue. An electrosurgical forceps comprising a switch assembly that provides electrosurgical energy to the cutting element.
(Item 11)
The electrosurgical forceps according to any one of the above items, wherein the selector is a rotary dial disposed on either the left side or the right side of the housing.
(Item 12)
The electrosurgical forceps according to any one of the above items, wherein the activation member is a pushable button.
(Item 13)
The electrosurgical forceps according to any of the preceding items, wherein the switch assembly comprising the activation member and the selector is operably supported on the housing.
(Item 14)
The electrosurgical forceps according to any of the preceding items, wherein the switch assembly comprising the selector is operably supported on the housing and the activation member is a foot switch.
(Item 15)
The selector is configured to allow a user to selectively place the electrosurgical forceps in at least three operating modes, the at least three operating modes including a sealing mode, a cutting mode, and The electrosurgical forceps according to any of the preceding items, wherein the electrosurgical force is in automatic mode, wherein the cutting and sealing processes are automatically controlled by the source of electrosurgical energy.
(Item 16)
housing;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member comprising a pair of spaced conductive conductive sealing surfaces, the tissue sealing surfaces comprising electrosurgical energy The tissue sealing surface is adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. A first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member comprises a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member;
A switch assembly operably disposed on the housing, the switch assembly operating with the source of electrosurgical energy to provide electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue A switch assembly comprising a pushable actuating member in operative communication; and operably with a source of electrosurgical energy for providing electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue An electrosurgical forceps with a communicating foot switch.
(Item 17)
The electrosurgical forceps according to any one of the above items, wherein the foot switch functions only when the operation switch is pressed.
(Item 18)
housing;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member comprising a pair of spaced conductive conductive sealing surfaces, the tissue sealing surfaces comprising electrosurgical energy The tissue sealing surface is adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. A first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member comprises a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member; And a touch screen operably disposed in the housing, the touch screen in operative communication with at least one computer disposed in one of the housing and the source of electrosurgical energy. Cage The touch screen provides at least two touch screen buttons, one sealing buttons and one cutting buttons, a touch screen,
Activation of the sealing button provides electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue, and activation of the cutting button provides electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to remove the sealed tissue. Electrosurgical forceps to cut.
(Item 19)
The touch screen is configured to provide feedback to the surgeon and to allow the surgeon to adjust the power intensity level of the electrosurgical energy provided to the tissue sealing surface cutting element. The electrosurgical forceps according to any of the preceding items, wherein the electrosurgical forceps is configured.
(Item 20)
housing;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member comprising a pair of spaced conductive conductive sealing surfaces, the tissue sealing surfaces comprising electrosurgical energy The tissue sealing surface is adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. A first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member comprises a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member;
A switch assembly operably disposed on the housing, the switch assembly operating with the source of electrosurgical energy to provide electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue A switch assembly comprising an activating member in communication; and a progressive touchpad operably disposed on the housing, the progressive touchpad comprising the housing and the source of electrosurgical energy Operatively communicating with at least one computer disposed on one of the two, the touchpad, when activated, provides electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue An electrosurgical forceps comprising a progressive touchpad configured to
(Item 21)
A housing supporting a rotatable shaft;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member comprising a pair of spaced conductive conductive sealing surfaces, the tissue sealing surfaces comprising electrosurgical energy The tissue sealing surface is adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. A first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member comprises a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member; A switch assembly operably disposed on the housing, the switch assembly being a source of electrosurgical energy for supplying electrosurgical energy to the first and second jaw members Operatively communicate with A magnetically activated activation member, the magnetically activated activation member comprising a first magnet and a second magnet, the first magnet being in contact with a corresponding first switch; One switch is configured to close, and the second magnet is configured to close the second switch upon contact with a corresponding second switch, so that the first magnet Activation of the switch provides electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal the tissue, and activation of the second switch activates electrosurgical energy to cut the sealed tissue. An electrosurgical forceps comprising a switch assembly for providing to the cutting element.
(Item 22)
The first magnet and the second magnet are supported in the housing adjacent to the proximal end of the shaft, and movement of the slide on the housing is the first magnet and the second magnet. The electrosurgical forceps according to any of the preceding items, wherein a second magnet is brought into contact with the corresponding switch.
(Item 23)
housing;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, wherein at least one of the first and second jaw members from the first position relative to the other Moveable to a second position, wherein in the first position the first jaw member and the second jaw member are spaced apart from each other and the second position In position, the first jaw member and the second jaw member cooperate to grasp tissue between the first jaw member and the second jaw member, each jaw member comprising: A pair of electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces spaced apart, wherein the tissue sealing surface is configured to be connected to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the tissue sealing surface is Sealing can be achieved by conducting electrosurgical energy through tissue held between sealing surfaces, At least one of the one jaw member and the second jaw member comprising a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member; a first jaw member and a second jaw member; and the electrosurgery At least one sensor in operative communication with a source of energy, the at least one sensor having the at least one movable jaw member in the second position and tissue being the first jaw member; And when the first jaw member and the second jaw member are in the second position, so as to detect when gripped between the first jaw member and the second jaw member, The source of electrosurgical energy automatically provides electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue and then cuts the electrosurgical energy to cut the sealed tissue. Provide the element with the sensor An electrosurgical forceps comprising.
(Item 24)
The item of claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor is in operative communication with a movable handle of the electrosurgical forceps and is configured to detect when the movable handle has moved to an unlatched configuration. The electrosurgical forceps according to any one of the above.
(Item 25)
The at least one sensor is in operative communication with the first jaw member and the second jaw member, and the first jaw member and the second jaw member are in the second position. The electrosurgical forceps according to any of the preceding items, configured to detect a time.

(Summary)
An electrosurgical forceps is provided that includes a housing, a shaft, and a pair of opposing first and second jaw members. Each jaw member includes a pair of spaced conductive tissue sealing surfaces that are adapted to be connected to a source of electrosurgical energy such that these Tissue sealing surfaces can conduct electrosurgical energy through tissue held between these tissue sealing surfaces to provide a seal. One or both of the first jaw member and the second jaw member includes a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member. A switch assembly is operatively disposed on the housing, the switch assembly being operative with a source of electrosurgical energy for supplying electrosurgical energy to the first jaw member and the second jaw member. A communicating activation member is provided. Activation of the activation member provides electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue and provides electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue.

(Summary)
Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numbers help distinguish between similar or identical elements. As used herein, the term “distal” refers to the portion of the device that is farther from the user and the term “proximal” is closer to the user of the device, Refers to the part to be described.

  One aspect of the present disclosure provides an electrosurgical forceps. The electrosurgical forceps includes a housing, and a shaft is supported on the housing. The shaft defines a longitudinal axis through the shaft. Each of the opposing pair of first and second jaw members includes a pair of spaced apart electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces that provide a source of electrosurgical energy. Adapted to be connected. These tissue sealing surfaces can conduct electrosurgical energy through tissue held between these tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. At least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member includes a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member. A switch assembly operably disposed on the housing includes an activation member in operative communication with a source of electrosurgical energy for supplying electrosurgical energy to the first jaw member and the second jaw member. Is provided. The activation member is moveable from an inactive configuration to a first active configuration and a second active configuration, the first active configuration transferring electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue. A configuration for providing, and the second active configuration is a configuration for providing electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue.

  The activation member may be operably disposed at the proximal end of the housing and moves along the longitudinal axis to place the activation member in one of the first active configuration and the second active configuration. It may be possible. Alternatively, the activation member can be operably disposed near the center of the housing and traverses the longitudinal axis to place the activation member in one of the first active configuration and the second active configuration. May be movable. The activation member may be accessible from either the left side or the right side of the housing. In certain instances, the activation member can be one of a rocker switch and a switch bar. In this example, the rocker switch may comprise an upper portion and a lower portion, and the upper portion and the lower portion, when depressed, move the rocker switch to a respective first active configuration and a second active configuration. Configured to put.

  The switch bar may comprise an upper depressible part and a lower depressable part, the upper depressible part and the lower depressable part for placing the switch bar in a first active configuration and a second active configuration, respectively. Configured. The upper pressable portion and the lower pressable portion may be configured to light up when pressed. The switch bar may include a left depressible portion and a right depressible portion, the left depressible portion and the right depressable portion being of electrosurgical energy provided to the first jaw member and the second jaw member. It is configured to adjust the power intensity level. In this example, a plurality of horizontally illuminable members are disposed between the left depressible portion and the right depressible portion to provide the user with the first jaw member and the second jaw member. May indicate the power intensity level of the electrosurgical energy being applied.

  One aspect of the present disclosure provides an electrosurgical forceps. The electrosurgical forceps includes a housing and a pair of opposing first and second jaw members. At least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member is moveable from the first position to the second position relative to the other, wherein the first jaw member The second jaw member and the second jaw member are spaced apart from each other, and in this second position, the first jaw member and the second jaw member grasp tissue therebetween. Collaborate like you do. Each jaw member includes a pair of spaced conductive tissue sealing surfaces that are adapted to be connected to a source of electrosurgical energy so that the tissue sealing is achieved. The surface can conduct electrosurgical energy through tissue held between these tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. At least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member includes a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member. A first switch assembly operably disposed on the housing is in operative communication with a source of electrosurgical energy for providing electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal the tissue. An activation member is provided. A lever having a latched configuration and an unlatched configuration and in operative communication with the second switch assembly is in operative communication with the source of electrosurgical energy, so that this In the unlatched configuration, electrosurgical energy is provided to the cutting element. The handle assembly includes a movable handle that is configured to move at least one movable jaw member from a first position to a second position. The movable handle is in operative communication with the lever and is configured to move the lever from a latched configuration to an unlatched configuration.

  One aspect of the present disclosure provides an electrosurgical forceps. The electrosurgical forceps includes a housing and a pair of opposing first and second jaw members. Each jaw member includes a pair of spaced conductive tissue sealing surfaces that are adapted to be connected to a source of electrosurgical energy such that these tissue sealing surfaces Can conduct electrosurgical energy through tissue held between these tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. At least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member includes a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member. The switch assembly includes an activation member and a selector. The activation member is in operative communication with a source of electrosurgical energy for providing electrosurgical energy to the first jaw member and the second jaw member. The selector is configured to allow the user to selectively place the electrosurgical forceps in at least two operating modes (sealing mode and cutting mode), in which the activation of the activation member is Electrosurgical energy is supplied to the tissue sealing surface to seal the tissue, and in this cutting mode, activation of the activation member supplies electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue.

  The selector can be a rotary dial located on one of the left or right side of the housing. Alternatively, the activation member can be a pushable button. A switch assembly comprising an activation member and a selector can be operably supported on the housing. A switch assembly with a selector can be operably supported on the housing and the activation member can be a foot switch. The selector may be configured to allow a user to selectively place the electrosurgical forceps in at least three operating modes (sealing mode, cutting mode, and automatic mode), The cutting and sealing process is automatically controlled by a source of electrosurgical energy.

  One aspect of the present disclosure provides an electrosurgical forceps. The electrosurgical forceps includes a housing and a pair of opposing first and second jaw members. Each jaw member includes a pair of spaced conductive tissue sealing surfaces that are adapted to be connected to a source of electrosurgical energy so that the tissue sealing is achieved. The surface can conduct electrosurgical energy through tissue held between these tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. At least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member includes a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member. A switch assembly operably disposed on the housing includes a pushable activation in operative communication with a source of electrosurgical energy for providing electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal the tissue. A member is provided. The footswitch is in operative communication with a source of electrosurgical energy for providing electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue. The foot switch can only be activated when the activation switch is depressed.

  One aspect of the present disclosure provides an electrosurgical forceps. The electrosurgical forceps includes a housing and a pair of opposing first and second jaw members. Each jaw member includes a pair of spaced conductive tissue sealing surfaces that are adapted to be connected to a source of electrosurgical energy so that the tissue sealing is achieved. The surface can conduct electrosurgical energy through tissue held between these tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. At least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member includes a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member. A touch screen operably disposed on the housing is in operative communication with at least one computer disposed on one of the housing and a source of electrosurgical energy. The touch screen provides at least two touch screen buttons, a sealing button, and a disconnect button. Activation of the sealing button provides electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal the tissue, and activation of the cutting button provides electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue. The touch screen can be configured to provide feedback to the surgeon and can be configured to allow the surgeon to adjust the power intensity level of electrosurgical energy provided to the cutting element of the tissue sealing surface. .

  One aspect of the present disclosure provides an electrosurgical forceps. The electrosurgical forceps includes a housing and a pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member including a pair of spaced apart electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces, The tissue sealing surfaces are configured to be connected to a source of electrosurgical energy so that the tissue sealing surfaces are electrosurgically passed through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces. It is possible to conduct energy and seal. At least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member includes a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member. A switch assembly operably disposed on the housing includes an actuating member in operative communication with a source of electrosurgical energy for providing electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal the tissue. Prepare. A progressive touchpad operably disposed on the housing is in operative communication with at least one computer disposed on one of the housing and a source of electrosurgical energy. The touchpad is configured to provide electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue upon activation thereof.

  One aspect of the present disclosure provides an electrosurgical forceps. The electrosurgical forceps includes a housing that supports a rotatable shaft. Each of the opposing pair of first and second jaw members includes a pair of spaced apart electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces that provide a source of electrosurgical energy. Adapted to be connected. The tissue sealing surfaces can conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect sealing, and the first jaw member and the second jaw member At least one includes a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member. A switch assembly is operably disposed on the housing and includes a magnetically activated activation member for providing electrosurgical energy to the first jaw member and the second jaw member. In operative communication with a source of electrosurgical energy. The magnetically activated activation member comprises a first magnet and a second magnet, the first magnet being configured to close the first switch when in contact with the corresponding first switch. And the second magnet is configured to close the second switch upon contact with the corresponding second switch. Activation of the first switch provides electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal the tissue, and activation of the second switch applies electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue. provide.

  A first magnet and a second magnet are supported in the housing adjacent to the proximal end of the shaft, and movement of the slide on the housing is a first magnet and a second magnet. Is brought into contact with the corresponding switch.

  One aspect of the present disclosure provides an electrosurgical forceps. The electrosurgical forceps includes a housing and a pair of opposing first and second jaw members. At least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member is movable from a first position to a second position relative to the other, wherein the first jaw member The jaw member and the second jaw member are disposed in a spaced relationship relative to each other, and in this second position, the first jaw member and the second jaw member are configured to grasp tissue therebetween. Collaborate with. Each jaw member includes a pair of spaced conductive tissue sealing surfaces that are adapted to be connected to a source of electrosurgical energy so that the tissue sealing is achieved. The surface can conduct electrosurgical energy through tissue held between these tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. At least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member includes a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member. At least one sensor is in operative communication with a source of electrosurgical energy, and the at least one movable jaw member is in the second position and the tissue is in the first jaw member and the second jaw member. It is configured to detect when it is gripped between. When the first jaw member and the second jaw member are in the second position, the source of electrosurgical energy automatically provides electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal the tissue; And then, electrosurgical energy is provided to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue.

  The at least one sensor may be in operative communication with the movable handle of the electrosurgical forceps and may be configured to detect when the movable handle has moved to an unlatched configuration. The at least one sensor can be in operative communication with the first jaw member and the second jaw member and to detect when the first jaw member and the second jaw member are in the second position. Can be configured.

  Various embodiments of the present disclosure are described hereinbelow with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1A is a right perspective view of an endoscopic bipolar forceps having a switching device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 1B is an enlarged schematic end view showing an electrode assembly configured for use with the endoscopic bipolar forceps illustrated in FIG. 1A. FIG. 2A is an enlarged schematic view of the area of detail of FIG. 2B-2C are enlarged elevation views of the switching device illustrated in FIG. 1 in different configurations. 2B-2C are enlarged elevation views of the switching device illustrated in FIG. 1 in different configurations. FIG. 3A is a schematic view of a housing of an endoscopic bipolar forceps having a switching device according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3B is a bottom view of the housing illustrated in FIG. 3A. FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a housing of an endoscopic bipolar forceps having a switching device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a switching device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a housing of an endoscopic bipolar forceps having a switching device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a housing of an endoscopic bipolar forceps having a switching device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. 8A and 8B are schematic views of a housing of an endoscopic bipolar forceps having a switching device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8A illustrates the lever of the switching device in a latched configuration. FIG. 8B illustrates the lever of the switching device in an unlatched configuration. FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a housing of an endoscopic bipolar forceps having a switching device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a housing of an endoscopic bipolar forceps having a switching device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a housing of an endoscopic bipolar forceps having a switching device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12A is a schematic diagram of a housing of a switching device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. 12B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12B-12B in FIG. 12A.

(Detailed explanation)
Detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein. However, the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure, which can be implemented in various forms. Accordingly, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a matter of fact. It should be construed as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art of various uses in any suitably detailed structure. In the present specification and drawings, the same reference number represents an element that can perform the same function, a similar function, or an equivalent function.

  Referring now to FIG. 1A, a bipolar forceps 2 for use in various endoscopic surgical procedures generally includes a housing 4, a handle assembly 6, an activation switch assembly 8, and an electrode assembly 10, which includes: Opposing jaw members 12 and 14 cooperate to mutually grasp, seal, and divide tubular vessels and vascular tissue. The forceps 2 includes a shaft 16 that has a distal end 18 sized to mechanically engage the electrode assembly 10 and a proximal end 20 that mechanically engages the housing 4. . The shaft 16 defines a longitudinal axis “AA” through the shaft and may comprise one or more known mechanical engagement components, which are one of the jaw members 12 and 14. Or both are pivotable relative to each other and are designed to securely receive and engage the electrode assembly 10 so as to engage and grip tissue between these jaw members. Although the illustrated embodiment illustrates an electrode assembly 10 having a unilateral jaw configuration, a bilateral jaw configuration may also be utilized.

  The handle assembly 6 includes a fixed handle 22 and a movable handle 24 (FIGS. 1A and 2A). The fixed handle 22 is integrally associated with the housing 4 and the movable handle 24 is movable relative to the fixed handle 22 to activate the opposing jaw members 12 and 14 of the electrode assembly 10. In certain embodiments, the movable handle 24 may be movable in a proximal direction by a predetermined distance to “latch” the movable handle 24. In this example, movable handle 24 (such as one or more components (e.g., relays, solenoids, latching devices, gears, connecting rods, combinations thereof, etc.) latches and unlatches movable handle 24. Or it can be operatively coupled to a fixed handle 22).

  With continued reference to FIG. 1A and with reference to FIGS. 2A-2C, the switch assembly 8 is illustrated. The switch assembly 8 is operably coupled to the proximal end of the housing 4 and includes circuitry that allows the switch assembly 8 to communicate with the generator 36. This generator is coupled to the forceps 2 via a cable 37 (FIG. 1A). The switch assembly 8 includes an activation member 38 that is movable between one or more positions. Specifically, the activation member 38 is movable from an inactive configuration (FIG. 2A) to one or more active configurations (FIGS. 2B-2C). In this inactive configuration, no electrosurgical energy is supplied to the jaw members 12 and 14. In these active configurations, electrosurgical energy is supplied to jaw members 12 and 14. Specifically, in a first active configuration (see, eg, FIG. 2B), electrosurgical energy is supplied to jaw members 12 and 14 to seal the tissue grasped between the jaw members. . In the second active configuration (see, eg, FIG. 2C), electrosurgical energy is supplied to the jaw members 12 and 14 to cut the previously sealed tissue. A haptic feedback mechanism (not shown) may be provided on the switch assembly 8 to indicate to the user when the activation member 38 is positioned in either the first active configuration or the second active configuration.

  Referring now to FIG. 1B, an electrode assembly 10 comprising jaw members 12 and 14 is illustrated. Insulators or insulating materials 26 and 28 are disposed between each pair of conductive sealing surfaces 30a and 30b and between 32a and 32b on the jaw members 12 and 14, respectively. Insulators 26, 28 may be made from any suitable non-conductive material. In the illustrated embodiment, the insulators 26, 28 are made from a ceramic material due to the hardness of the ceramic material and its inherent ability to withstand high temperature fluctuations.

  One or both of the jaw members 12 and 14 includes a conductive cutting element 34 disposed substantially within or on the insulators 26, 28. In the illustrated embodiment, each jaw member 12 and 14 includes a cutting element 34. In certain examples, one or both of the cutting elements 34 can be made from an insulating material and a conductive coating can be disposed thereon, or one of the cutting elements 34 can be non-conductive. obtain.

  The cutting element 34 can be activated independently by the surgeon (or can be automatically activated by the generator 36 once sealing is complete, this embodiment will be described in more detail below). When the activation member 38 is placed in the second active configuration (FIG. 2C), electrosurgical energy is supplied to one or both of the cutting elements 34 to cut the sealed tissue.

  An audible or visual indicator (not shown) may be used to indicate to the surgeon that the forceps 2 are ready for the sealing or cutting phase of the surgical procedure. For example, in one particular embodiment, the generator 36 may be configured to provide the surgeon with an audible sound typical of the sealing phase. Similarly, the generator 36 may be configured to provide the surgeon with an audible sound typical of the cutting phase. Alternatively, the forceps 2 can be configured to provide the surgeon with one of the audible sounds when the activation member 38 is placed in either the first active configuration or the second active configuration. .

  A more detailed description of the operational features of jaw members 12 and 14 with cutting element 34 and / or sealing surfaces 30a and 30b, and 32a and 32b can be found in US Pat. No. 7,276,068 (Johnson et al. Filed on the 2nd).

  In one particular embodiment, a safety algorithm can be used to ensure that an accurate complete tissue seal is formed prior to cutting. For example, an audible indicator or visual indicator can be used to convince the surgeon that an accurate seal has been formed. In this example, the surgeon may be prevented from moving the activation member 38 from the first active configuration to the second active configuration until the audible or visual indicator is communicated to the surgeon. In this example, one or more locking features can be coupled to the switch assembly 8 and / or the activation member 38.

  In use, activation member 38 is placed in a first active configuration (FIG. 2B) to seal tissue and opposing sealing surfaces 30a and 32a, and 30b and 32b are activated to activate these sealing surfaces. The tissue placed in between is sealed to create two tissue seals on both sides of insulators 26 and 28.

  To cut the tissue, the activation member 38 is placed in a second active configuration (FIG. 2C), and the cutting element 34 is energized with a first potential “+” and the right opposite sealing surface 30b and 32b are energized with a second potential “−” (FIG. 1B). This creates a concentrated energy path between the potentials “+” and “−” through the tissue and cuts the tissue between the previously formed tissue seals. Once the tissue is cut, jaw members 12 and 14 are opened to release the cut tissue.

  As can be appreciated, the switch assembly 8 can be sealed and sealed by the surgeon without requiring several hand and / or finger manipulations (as typically required in conventional electrosurgical instruments). Makes it possible to start the sequence of cutting.

  The switch assembly 8 may comprise various other types of activation members. For example, FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate an activation member 38a operatively disposed near the central portion 4a of the housing 4. FIG. In this example, the actuating member 38a may be configured with the actuating member 38a in a first active configuration or a second active configuration (see, eg, FIG. 3B, in which the actuating member 38a is shown in phantom) Can be moved across the longitudinal axis “AA”. The activation member 38a is accessible from either the left side or the right side of the housing 4 (see FIG. 3A). This allows the surgeon to depress the activation member 38a with one of five fingers, either from the left side and / or the right side. In one particular embodiment, the activation member 38a is movable across the longitudinal axis “A-A” when the movable handle 24 is in a latched configuration. This serves as a safety mechanism to prevent cutting the sealed tissue when the jaws 12 and 14 are in the open configuration. That is, in the latched configuration, jaw members 12 and 14 are maintained in a closed configuration.

  In use, in one particular embodiment, activation member 38a is moved to the left side of longitudinal axis "AA" so that activation member 38a places activation member 38a in the first active configuration and to the right of the longitudinal axis. This movement of the activation member to is configured to place the activation member in the second active configuration, or vice versa.

  FIG. 4 illustrates an activation member in the form of a rocker switch 38b. This rocker switch is arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis “A-A”. In this example, depressing the upper portion 39a of the rocker switch 38b places the rocker switch 38b in the first active configuration, and depressing the lower portion 39b of the rocker switch 38b places the rocker switch 38b in the second active configuration. . Or vice versa. Alternatively, the rocker switch 38b may be disposed horizontally with respect to the longitudinal axis “A-A”. In this example, the upper portion 39a and the lower portion 39b are replaced with left and right lateral portions (not shown). The exact configuration of the rocker switch 38 depends on the manufacturer's preferences, surgical procedures, and the like.

  FIG. 5 illustrates an actuating member in the form of a switch bar 38c, which comprises an upper depressible part 39c and a lower depressible part 39d, each of which is provided with a first switch bar 38c. Configured to be placed in the active configuration and the second active configuration. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the upper depressible portion 39c and the lower depressable portion 39d are configured to light up when pressed. For this purpose, when one or more types of devices (e.g., LEDs, backlighting, etc.) are operably coupled to the switch bar 38c, the upper depressible portion 39c and the lower depressible portion 39d are depressed. These can be lit.

  In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the switch bar 38c comprises a left depressible portion 39e and a right depressible portion 39f, which are electrosurgical energy power provided to the jaw members 12 and 14. Configured to adjust the intensity level. In this particular example, a plurality of horizontally illuminable members 41 are disposed between a left depressible portion 39e and a right depressable portion 39f to provide a first jaw member 12 and a second jaw member. The power intensity level of the electrosurgical energy provided at 14 may be indicated to the surgeon.

  Referring to FIG. 6, a forceps 102 according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Only the features specific to the forceps 102 are described in detail. Unlike forceps 2, which utilizes switch assembly 8, generator 136 automatically detects when tissue is clamped between jaw members 112 and 114 and is ready for sealing and / or cutting. Configured as follows. In this example, one or more sensors 101a may be in operative communication with jaw members 112 and 114 and / or movable handle 124 (FIG. 6). For example, in one particular embodiment, the sensor 101a may be configured to detect when the movable handle 124 has moved to a “latched” configuration. In this example, sensor 101a may be operatively in communication with one or more components of generator 136 and configured to send a command signal to this component indicating that the tissue is ready for sealing. obtain. Detection of this command signal by generator 136 automatically initiates the sealing phase. Electrosurgical energy is then transmitted to the pair of tissue sealing surfaces 130a and 132a and 130b and 132b of the respective jaw members 112 and 114 to seal the tissue according to a particular predetermined duty cycle.

  The generator 136 can then provide electrosurgical energy to the cutting element 134 to cut the sealed tissue. This cutting phase can be initiated as a result of a command signal provided by a second sensor 101b configured to detect the sealing quality of the sealed tissue. In this particular example, the second sensor 101b can be positioned adjacent to the jaw members 112 and 114 and one or more tissue parameters associated with the second sensor (eg, tissue impedance, tissue temperature, etc.). Information) and communicating this information to one or more components of the generator 136. In examples where the generator 136 determines that the quality of the seal is sufficient, the generator 136 provides electrosurgical energy to the cutting element 134 to cut the sealed tissue.

  Alternatively, the generator 136 can be configured to provide electrosurgical energy to the cutting element 134 to cut the sealed tissue after the end of the duty cycle. In this example, the generator 136 may provide electrosurgical energy to the cutting element 134 based on a particular predetermined cutting duty cycle.

  In certain embodiments, the sealing and / or cutting steps can be initiated as a result of tissue being disposed between jaw members 112 and 114 and jaw members 112 and 114 being in a clamped position. In this example, sensor 101b is configured to send a command signal indicating to generator 136 that the tissue is ready for sealing and / or cutting.

  As can be appreciated, the configuration specific to the forceps 102 comprising the sensors 101a and 101b in communication with the generator 136 seals the tissue compared to conventional forceps that seal and electrosurgically cut the tissue. Provides a “handless” alternative for electrosurgical cutting.

  Referring to FIG. 7, a forceps 202 according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Only the features unique to the forceps 202 are described in detail. A switch assembly 208 is operatively disposed on the housing 204 and operatively communicates with a generator 236 for providing electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surfaces 230a and 232a, and 230b and 232b to seal the tissue. And a depressible activation member 238. However, unlike the activation member 38, the activation member 238 is movable from an initial configuration to one active configuration.

  A foot switch 201 is in operative communication with a generator 236 for providing electrosurgical energy to the cutting element 234 to cut the sealed tissue. Specifically, after the tissue is sealed, the surgeon activates (eg, depresses) foot switch 201 to cut the sealed tissue. The foot switch 201 may be configured such that activation of the foot switch signals the generator 236 to initiate a cutting phase having a predetermined cutting duty cycle. In this example, the generator 236 provides electrosurgical energy to the cutting element 234 for the duration of this cutting duty cycle. The foot switch 201 can be configured to interrupt or stop this cutting duty cycle. For example, the surgeon may press the foot switch 201 during this duty cycle. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the foot switch 201 can be configured to function in a variety of different ways. For example, in one particular embodiment, generator 236 provides electrosurgical energy to cutting element 234 when both footswitch 201 and activation member 238 are in an active configuration.

  Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, a forceps 302 according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Only the features specific to the forceps 302 are described in detail. A lever assembly 323 is operably disposed in the housing 304 and is in operative communication with the generator 336 via the second switch assembly 325. The lever 323 is movable from the latched configuration (FIG. 8A) to the unlatched configuration (FIG. 8B). In this unlatched configuration, the lower portion 327 of the lever 323 contacts the switch 325, which in turn provides electrosurgical energy to the cutting element 334. Electrosurgical energy can be provided to the cutting element 334 according to the cutting duty cycle and can be interrupted as a result of the lever 323 moving out of contact with the switch 325.

  The movable handle 324 of the handle assembly 306 is configured to move the jaw member 310 from an open configuration to a closed configuration. Further, the movable handle 324 corresponds to a configuration in which the lever 323 is latched as a result of the movable handle 324 moving proximally by a predetermined distance (this corresponds to the jaw member being in an open configuration, for example). , See FIG. 1A) configured to move to an unlatched configuration (this corresponds to the jaw member being in a closed configuration, not explicitly shown).

  Referring to FIG. 9, a forceps 402 according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Only the features unique to the forceps 402 are described in detail. The switch assembly 408 includes an activation member 438 and a selector 450. The selector 450 is configured to allow the surgeon to selectively place the forceps 402 in one or more operating modes (sealing mode, cutting mode, and any automatic mode). Sealing mode, cutting mode, and optional automatic mode are implemented in the manner described above (see, for example, above for the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2C and 6). ).

  The selector 450 can be any suitable type of selector (including but not limited to slides, buttons, and protrusions), or for purposes of illustration, the selector 450 can be Shown as a rotating dial, which can be located on either the left or right side. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, a switch assembly 408 comprising an activation member 438 and a selector 450 is operably supported on the housing 404. In certain embodiments, a switch assembly 408 comprising a selector 450 can be operably supported on the housing 404 and the foot switch 401 can be utilized in the manner described above (the implementation illustrated in FIG. 7). (See discussion on form). Alternatively, in certain examples, the switch assembly 408 can be omitted and the functions provided by the switch assembly 408 can be provided by the foot switch 401.

  Referring to FIG. 10, a forceps 502 according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Only the features unique to the forceps 502 are described in detail. Touch screen 560 is operatively disposed on housing 504 and is in operative communication with computer 570. One computer 570 is illustrated in this figure. Computer 570 may be located in either housing 504 or generator 536. For illustrative purposes, computer 570 is shown disposed in housing 504. Computer 570 is configured to process information provided by touch screen 560 and communicates this information to one or more components associated with generator 534.

  Touch screen 560 includes one or more touch screen buttons. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, touch screen 560 includes a touch screen seal button 561 and a touch screen disconnect button 562 (any touch screen auto button may also be provided). To initiate the sealing phase, the surgeon presses the touch screen sealing button 561 with a finger (or passive object (eg, stylus)), and to initiate the cutting phase, the surgeon Press 562. Electrosurgical energy is provided to forceps 502 to seal and cut tissue in the manner described herein above.

  Touch screen 560 may be configured to display information to the surgeon during either the sealing or cutting phase. Information displayed by the touch screen 560 may include, but is not limited to, date and time, sealing time, cutting time, remaining time of either sealing or duty cycle, tissue parameters, power output, and the like.

  Referring to FIG. 11, a forceps 602 according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Only the features unique to the forceps 602 are described in detail. A progressive touchpad 660 is in operative communication with one or more computers 670. One computer 670 is illustrated in this figure. Computer 670 may be located in either housing 604 or generator 636. For illustrative purposes, computer 670 is shown disposed in housing 604. Computer 670 is configured to process information provided by touchpad 660 and communicates this information to one or more components associated with generator 634. To activate the cutting phase, the surgeon slides his finger (or passive object (eg, stylus)) over the screen of the touchpad 660.

  Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B, a forceps 702 according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Only the features unique to the forceps 702 are described in detail. A switch assembly 708 is operably disposed on the housing 704 and is disposed in operative communication with a generator 736 for supplying electrosurgical energy as previously described herein. A magnetically activated activation member 738 is provided that communicates with the switch 756 (FIG. 12A). A magnetically actuated activation member 738 is disposed within the housing 704 and is positioned adjacent to and proximally coupled to the proximal end 720 of the shaft 716.

  The magnetically activated activation member 738 includes one or more magnets 755 (FIG. 12B), which are configured to open and close the corresponding switch 756 (FIG. 12A). In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 12A and 12B, a magnetically actuated activation member 738 includes a pair of first magnets 755a configured to close a corresponding first switch 756a and a corresponding second. A pair of second magnets 755b configured to close the switch 756b (FIG. 12B). Specifically, when magnets 755a and 755b are brought into contact (or in proximity) with corresponding switches 756a and 756b, switches 756a and 756b provide command signals to generator 736. More specifically, when magnet 755a is brought into contact (or in proximity) with first switch 756a, electrosurgical energy is provided to seal the tissue. In one particular embodiment, when the magnetically actuated activation member 738 is rotated a quarter turn to the left from its initial configuration (FIG. 12B), the magnet 755a contacts (or is proximate to) the first switch 756a. And then electrosurgical energy is provided to seal the tissue. Similarly, when magnet 755b is in contact with (or close to) first switch 756b, electrosurgical energy is provided to cut tissue. In one particular embodiment, when the magnetically actuated activation member 738 is rotated halfway to the right from its initial configuration, the magnet 755b is placed in contact with (or in close proximity to) the second switch 756b. And electrosurgical energy is provided to cut the tissue.

  Slide 751 (or other suitable device) can be utilized to move the magnetically activated actuating member 738 between a quarter and a half rotation. In this example, when the slide 751 is moved to the left, the magnetically activated activation member 738 is moved a quarter turn left from its initial configuration, and when the slide 751 is moved to the right, it is magnetically activated. The actuating member 738 moves one half turn to the left from its initial configuration.

  Alternatively, a magnetically actuated activation member 738 can be fixedly supported on the shaft 716 so that rotation of the shaft 716 causes the first magnet 755a and the second magnet 755b to move to the corresponding switches 756a and 756b. To contact (or close to).

  In view of the above, with reference to the various drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain modifications can be made to the disclosure without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, although the switch assembly has been described herein as being an operational component of forceps 2, one or more of these switch assemblies may be removably connectable to forceps 2. It is within the scope of this disclosure to be provided as a modular component.

  In addition, either the forceps 2 or the generator 36 may be equipped with wireless technology to communicate with the surgeon so that the surgeon seals when tissue is grasped between the jaw members 12 and 14. It is possible to switch between stages and cutting stages. In this example, for example, “Bluetooth®” technology can be included in either the forceps 2 or the generator 36.

  Although several embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in the drawings, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited thereto. This is because the present disclosure is as broad as the field allows, and it is intended that this specification be read as well. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.

2 Forceps
4 Housing
6 Handle assembly
8 Start switch assembly
10 electrode assembly
12, 14 Jaw members
16 shaft
18 Distal end
20 Proximal end
22 Fixed handle
24 Movable handle

Claims (25)

A housing supporting a shaft, wherein the shaft defines a longitudinal axis;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member comprising a pair of spaced conductive conductive sealing surfaces, the tissue sealing surfaces comprising electrosurgical energy The tissue sealing surface is adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. And at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member comprises a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member, the first jaw member and the second jaw member And a switch assembly operably disposed on the housing, the switch assembly supplying electrosurgical energy to provide electrosurgical energy to the first jaw member and the second jaw member Operably communicate with the source The actuating member is movable from an inactive configuration to a first active configuration and a second active configuration, the first active configuration comprising electrosurgical energy for sealing tissue The switch is a configuration for providing electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue An electrosurgical forceps comprising the assembly.   An activation member is operably disposed at a proximal end of the housing and the longitudinal axis is for placing the activation member in one of the first active configuration and the second active configuration. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein the electrosurgical forceps is movable along the axis.   An activation member is operably disposed near the center of the housing, and the longitudinal axis is positioned to place the activation member in one of the first active configuration and the second active configuration. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1, which is movable across.   The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein the activation member is accessible from either the left side or the right side of the housing.   The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein the activation member is one of a rocker switch and a switch bar.   The rocker switch comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and the upper portion and the lower portion are configured to place the rocker switch in a respective first active configuration and second active configuration when depressed. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 5.   The switch rod includes an upper depressible portion and a lower depressible portion, the upper depressable portion and the lower depressible portion place the switch rod in the first active configuration and the second active configuration, respectively. 6. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 5, wherein the upper pushable portion, the upper pushable portion, and the lower pushable portion are configured to light up when pressed. .   The switch bar includes a left depressible portion and a right depressable portion, the left depressible portion and the right depressable portion provided on the first jaw member and the second jaw member. A plurality of horizontally ignitable members configured to adjust a power intensity level of energy and disposed between the left depressible portion and the right depressible portion; The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 7, wherein the electrosurgical forceps indicates to a user the power intensity level of the electrosurgical energy provided to one jaw member and the second jaw member. housing;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, wherein at least one of the first and second jaw members has a first position relative to the other from a first position; Is movable to a second position, wherein in the first position the first jaw member and the second jaw member are arranged in spaced relation to each other, the second jaw member In position, the first jaw member and the second jaw member cooperate to grasp tissue between the first jaw member and the second jaw member, each jaw member comprising: A pair of electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces spaced apart, wherein the woven sealing surface is adapted to be connected to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the tissue sealing surface is A seal can be conducted by conducting electrosurgical energy through tissue held between the sealing surfaces; Members and at least one of the second jaw member includes a cutting element of electrically conductive disposed in jaw member, the first and second jaw members;
A first switch assembly operably disposed in the housing, wherein the first switch assembly provides electrosurgical energy for providing electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue. A first switch assembly comprising an actuating member in operative communication with a source;
A lever having a latched configuration and an unlatched configuration, wherein the lever is in operative communication with a second switch assembly that is in operative communication with the source of electrosurgical energy. A lever assembly in which, in the unlatched configuration, electrosurgical energy is provided to the cutting element; and a handle assembly comprising a movable handle, the movable handle including the at least one movable jaw member The movable handle is configured to move from the first position to the second position, the movable handle is in operative communication with the lever, and the lever is configured from the latched configuration. An electrosurgical forceps comprising a handle assembly configured to move the latch to an unlatched configuration. housing;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member comprising a pair of spaced conductive conductive sealing surfaces, the tissue sealing surfaces comprising electrosurgical energy The tissue sealing surface is adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. A first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member comprises a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member; and A switch assembly comprising an activation member and a selector, the activation member operable with the source of electrosurgical energy for providing electrosurgical energy to the first jaw member and the second jaw member And the selection Is configured to allow a user to selectively place the electrosurgical forceps in at least two operating modes, the at least two operating modes being a sealing mode and a cutting mode, wherein the sealing In mode, activation of the activation member supplies electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue, and in the cutting mode, activation of the activation member is for cutting the sealed tissue. An electrosurgical forceps comprising a switch assembly that provides electrosurgical energy to the cutting element.   The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 10, wherein the selector is a rotary dial disposed on either the left side or the right side of the housing.   The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 10, wherein the activation member is a pushable button.   The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 10, wherein the switch assembly comprising the activation member and the selector is operably supported on the housing.   The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 10, wherein the switch assembly comprising the selector is operably supported on the housing, and the activation member is a foot switch.   The selector is configured to allow a user to selectively place the electrosurgical forceps in at least three operating modes, the at least three operating modes including a sealing mode, a cutting mode, and The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 10, wherein the electrosurgical forceps is in an automatic mode, wherein a cutting process and a sealing process are automatically controlled by the source of electrosurgical energy. housing;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member comprising a pair of spaced conductive conductive sealing surfaces, the tissue sealing surfaces comprising electrosurgical energy The tissue sealing surface is adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. A first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member comprises a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member;
A switch assembly operably disposed on the housing, the switch assembly operating with the source of electrosurgical energy to provide electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue A switch assembly comprising a pushable actuating member in operative communication; and operably with a source of electrosurgical energy for providing electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue An electrosurgical forceps with a communicating foot switch.   17. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 16, wherein the foot switch functions only when the activation switch is depressed. housing;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member comprising a pair of spaced conductive conductive sealing surfaces, the tissue sealing surfaces comprising electrosurgical energy The tissue sealing surface is adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. A first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member comprises a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member; And a touch screen operably disposed in the housing, the touch screen in operative communication with at least one computer disposed in one of the housing and the source of electrosurgical energy. Cage The touch screen provides at least two touch screen buttons, one sealing buttons and one cutting buttons, a touch screen,
Activation of the sealing button provides electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue, and activation of the cutting button provides electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to remove the sealed tissue. Electrosurgical forceps to cut.   The touch screen is configured to provide feedback to the surgeon and to allow the surgeon to adjust the power intensity level of the electrosurgical energy provided to the cutting element of the tissue sealing surface. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 18, wherein the electrosurgical forceps is configured. housing;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member comprising a pair of spaced conductive conductive sealing surfaces, the tissue sealing surfaces comprising electrosurgical energy The tissue sealing surface is adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. A first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member comprises a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member;
A switch assembly operably disposed on the housing, the switch assembly operating with the source of electrosurgical energy to provide electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue A switch assembly comprising an activating member in communication; and a progressive touchpad operably disposed on the housing, the progressive touchpad comprising the housing and the source of electrosurgical energy Operatively communicating with at least one computer disposed on one of the two, the touchpad, when activated, provides electrosurgical energy to the cutting element to cut the sealed tissue An electrosurgical forceps comprising a progressive touchpad configured to A housing supporting a rotatable shaft;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, each jaw member comprising a pair of spaced conductive conductive sealing surfaces, the tissue sealing surfaces comprising electrosurgical energy The tissue sealing surface is adapted to conduct electrosurgical energy through the tissue held between the tissue sealing surfaces to effect a seal. A first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member comprises a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member; A switch assembly operably disposed on the housing, the switch assembly being a source of electrosurgical energy for supplying electrosurgical energy to the first and second jaw members Operatively communicate with A magnetically activated activation member, the magnetically activated activation member comprising a first magnet and a second magnet, the first magnet being in contact with a corresponding first switch; One switch is configured to close, and the second magnet is configured to close the second switch upon contact with a corresponding second switch, so that the first magnet Activation of the switch provides electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal the tissue, and activation of the second switch activates electrosurgical energy to cut the sealed tissue. An electrosurgical forceps comprising a switch assembly for providing to the cutting element.   The first magnet and the second magnet are supported in the housing adjacent to the proximal end of the shaft, and movement of the slide on the housing is the first magnet and the second magnet. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 21, wherein a second magnet is brought into contact with the corresponding switch. housing;
A pair of opposing first and second jaw members, wherein at least one of the first and second jaw members from the first position relative to the other Moveable to a second position, wherein in the first position the first jaw member and the second jaw member are spaced apart from each other and the second position In position, the first jaw member and the second jaw member cooperate to grasp tissue between the first jaw member and the second jaw member, each jaw member comprising: A pair of electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces spaced apart, wherein the tissue sealing surface is configured to be connected to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the tissue sealing surface is Sealing can be achieved by conducting electrosurgical energy through tissue held between sealing surfaces, At least one of the one jaw member and the second jaw member comprising a conductive cutting element disposed on the jaw member; a first jaw member and a second jaw member; and the electrosurgery At least one sensor in operative communication with a source of energy, the at least one sensor having the at least one movable jaw member in the second position and tissue being the first jaw member; And when the first jaw member and the second jaw member are in the second position, so as to detect when gripped between the first jaw member and the second jaw member, The source of electrosurgical energy automatically provides electrosurgical energy to the tissue sealing surface to seal tissue and then cuts the electrosurgical energy to cut the sealed tissue. Provide the element with the sensor An electrosurgical forceps comprising.   24. The at least one sensor is in operative communication with a movable handle of the electrosurgical forceps and is configured to detect when the movable handle has moved to an unlatched configuration. Electrosurgical forceps as described in.   The at least one sensor is in operative communication with the first jaw member and the second jaw member, and the first jaw member and the second jaw member are in the second position. 24. The electrosurgical forceps of claim 23, configured to detect a time.

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